Objective:
The objective of the project is to investigate the relationship between a sugar beet virus and its fungal vector (Polymyxa betae) on viral transmission to sugar beet.

Approach:
Several different research approaches will be followed to attain the objectives of this project.
• Real time PCR techniques for the detection and quantification of P. betae in host tissue will be developed
• Real time PCR techniques for the detection and quantification of Beet Necrotic Yellow Vein Virus (BNYVV) in host tissue will be developed
• The relationship between the extent of fungal colonization of roots and virus titer will be determined using the above noted real time PCR assays. Different combinations of strains of P. betae and of BNYVV will be evaluated.
• The ability of the P. betae real time PCR assay to quantify the level of the pathogen in the soil will be evaluated.